First Consumer Lawsuit Targeting A Kickstarter Project

The attorney general of the State of Washington has filed what he says is the first consumer lawsuit targeting a project that was funded through Kickstarter. The entrepreneur met his funding goal of $15,000, and then some, for launching a playing card game called Asylum. But no product was forthcoming, and both the entrepreneur and his Nashville-based company, Altius Management, failed to respond to inquiries from disgruntled backers. “Consumers need to be aware that crowdfunding is not without risk,” said Washington Attorney General Bob Ferguson. “This lawsuit sends a clear message to people seeking the public’s money: Washington state will not tolerate crowdfunding theft.” The lawsuit seeks restitution, civil penalties and money to cover the state’s legal costs.